Stationary Steam Engine running at the Science Museum, London. 9th September 2023

Built by Burnley Iron Works in 1903 when it was installed in the Harle Syke Mill, Burnley.

The engine is a double-acting cross-compound type, with two cylinders, one a high pressure of 17 inches diameter and the other a low pressure of 39 inches diameter. It is fitted with Corliss valves which give variable timing, making this type of engine more efficient than a similar machine with static valve timing. The flywheel is 18 feet 6 inches in diameter and in service the engine would produce 700 hp at a maximum of 76 rpm from a boiler pressure of 160 psi.

When installed the engine drove 900-990 looms [internet sources vary on the exact number] weaving cotton. In 1905 a further 416 looms were added. When the British economy collapsed after World War One the cotton weaving industry contracted and the Harle Syke Mill reduced its output. There was a period of consolidation in the cotton weaving industry with several companies merging their operation in to the Harle Syke Mill but after World War Two the British cotton weaving industry was in terminal decline. Throughout this time the engine provided power to the looms despite the downturns and several changes of ownership. In 1970 the Harle Syke Mill ceased weaving and the then current owners, Finley View Manufacturing, pulled the fire for the last time. In 1971 they donated the engine to the Science Museum.


[4K]